When an electrical interruption occurs along a power line, the power supply is cut off to all customers downstream of the nearest distribution substation, which channels energy from a generation facility.
This process is similar to a GPS navigation system: when encountering obstructions, the system recalibrates to provide an alternative route, optimizing travel time. Similarly, in response to disruptions such as downed power lines, we may employ switching to redirect electricity within our grid to avoid compromised equipment and allow power restoration to customers even while repair crews are being dispatched.
How does it work?
Switching involves connecting affected circuits to alternate power sources, specifically neighboring circuits, allowing us to restore service to impacted customers until complete repairs can be made.
This switching can be initiated either automatically or manually. Many of our circuits are equipped with advanced automated switching technology known as Distribution Automation Circuit Reconfiguration (DACR). This system can identify outages and reroute power within minutes, enhancing our response efficiency. This agility ensures that customers, particularly those in remote areas, receive reliable power, even in the face of challenges inclement weather brings or that of an unforeseen equipment failure.
For circuits lacking DACR, our skilled crews undertake the switching process manually. The duration of this manual operation can range from five minutes to several hours, contingent on the specific location and complexity of the required work. While the manual switching process may extend the complete restoration timeline, it is essential for minimizing the duration of power outages for our customers.
Before and After: Photos of a 3-phase line with new switches